Enjoy the holidays in Madison

The holidays come to life in Madison through all the little details that make the city sparkle. Details like the carefully crafted gifts at local boutiques to the ornaments lining the Wisconsin State Capitol tree made by students from across the state help fuel our very merry spirit. Downtown ice skating, dining in domes, holiday light displays and a Miracle on King Street are waiting to help you and your loved ones make very merry Madison memories.

All this packed into one weekend? You bet. It's easy when you book a room at one of the coziest hotels in Madison. Find places to stay. >

Find your favorite things to do in Madison:

The Hilldale outdoor shopping mall makes holiday shopping a blast with interactive games, photo op spots and special events throughout the season.

Where to find the best holiday shopping

Holiday shopping has never been more rewarding. Our 2025 Very Merry Madison Gift Guide is full of recommendations for gifts that are beautiful, sustainable, memorable and absolutely magical. Take the gift guide on the go when you sign up for our Very Merry Madison Shopping Pass, a free mobile pass to guide you on your shopping adventures. Stop into at least five stores and you'll win an exclusive Madison holiday shopping tote.

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What are the best holiday light displays in Madison?

Make your holiday memories sparkle with light shows and tree displays that dazzle. Marvel at the larger-than-life holiday tree at the Wisconsin State Capitol, drive through the Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park, see the Henry Vilas Zoo in a whole new (twinkling) light at Zoo Lights and explore the holidays underground at Cave of the Mounds' Lights in the Cave event.

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Cozy up with handcrafted food and festive drinks

The flavors of a season can trigger the best memories and fuzziest feelings. You can taste all the nostalgia with your favorite classic holiday flavors, served with a flair in Madison. Drink a festive cocktail in a dinosaur mug at Miracle on King Street, sip on mulled wine in a cozy winter dome or learn how to make your own elevated holiday meal with classes at DelecTable and The Deliciouser.

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What holiday events are happening this year in Madison?

Christkindlmarkets, chef-crafted dinners, wintery festivals and cheerful celebrations make for no idle minutes in the capital city during the holiday season. Looking to embrace all there is to do downtown during the holidays? Check out the lineup of downtown Madison winter events.

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